Food security through knowledge in Tamilnadu

Over the years there have been many efforts taken by both
governmental and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to ensure
food security in India.

One such NGO that operates in the state of Tamil Nadu is SCAD-
Social Change And Development. This has been fundamental
since 1985 and has focused on empowering the marginalized
communities in about 500 villages of Tamil Nadu. Many of the
farmers in these areas are small scale producers who are often
isolated, lack support and knowledge. Through SCAD, the farmers
receive advice, support and information on the latest
technological advances to help them cultivate the best crops from
the land and to raise healthy animals. Their farm centre, known
as Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), is supported by the Central
Government of India and many innovative technologies that have
sustainable advantages have been developed for the local farming
communities. KVK has a soil, plant and water testing labs, bio
agents, bio fungicides and bio fertilizer production labs. A
nursing and farming area are available for trials and
experiments. The problems faced by farmers, if any, are sorted
out through KVK collaboration with farmers.

Soil fertility project has undertaken by them to provide
organic products for rural farmers using agriculture and market
waste. Two main products made are Biochar and Liquid fertilizer.
Biochar is a coal made from 'dry' agricultural waste such as
straw, rice husks, unused woody material etc. The process of
PYROLYSIS is used to make biochar from charcoal. Fertilizers are
also made from 'wet' waste such as vegetable trimmings from SCAD
kitchens and green waste from local markets. 'Charfer' is a
combination of biochar and liquid fertilizer and it can be used
effectively to improve soil fertility and crop yields, without
destroying ecosystems.

Veterinary camps are a crucial part of SCAD wherein dairy,
poultry and domestic animals are treated. About 50 camps are held
each year and 10,000 animals are vaccinated. Technical guidance
on starting cow and goat rearing units, backyard poultry rearing,
rabbit rearing and fish cultivation is provided.

Fish cultivation is done in freshwater. Traditional water
reservoirs called 'ooranies' collect monsoon and are then stacked
with freshwater fish with a supply of nutritiously rich food.
These fishes are large, less expensive and the profits obtained
by selling them is used for the maintenance of 'ooranies' and to
expand fish culture.

I think that SCAD has not only benefitted people by providing
them with food security, but also encouraged them to expand their
knowledge by educating them in the scientific aspects farming and
rearing animals for a sustainable living.